Genesis 24:19

After she had given him a drink, she said, "I will also draw water for your camels, until they have had enough to drink."

Study Bible

After she had given him a drink
This phrase highlights Rebekah's immediate act of kindness and hospitality, a valued trait in ancient Near Eastern culture. The act of giving a drink to a stranger reflects the biblical principle of showing love and care to others, as seen in Hebrews 13:2, which encourages hospitality to strangers. This moment also sets the stage for the fulfillment of Abraham's servant's prayer for a sign, demonstrating God's providence and guidance in the selection of Isaac's wife.

she said,
Rebekah's initiative in speaking indicates her willingness and proactive nature. In the cultural context, women often played a significant role in managing household duties, including drawing water. Her readiness to speak and act aligns with the biblical portrayal of women like Ruth and Esther, who also took decisive actions that aligned with God's plans.

“I will also draw water for your camels,
This statement reveals Rebekah's extraordinary generosity and servant-heartedness. Drawing water for camels was a labor-intensive task, as a single camel could drink many gallons. Her offer goes beyond the expected hospitality, reflecting a heart of service and foreshadowing the qualities of a virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31:10-31. This act also serves as a type of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve (Mark 10:45).

until they have had enough to drink.”
Rebekah's commitment to drawing water "until they have had enough" underscores her diligence and thoroughness. This mirrors the biblical principle of going the extra mile, as taught by Jesus in Matthew 5:41. Her actions fulfill the servant's prayer for a sign, confirming her as God's chosen bride for Isaac. This moment can be seen as a foreshadowing of the abundant provision and care that God offers to His people, as seen throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rebekah
A young woman of great kindness and hospitality, Rebekah is the daughter of Bethuel and becomes the wife of Isaac. Her actions in this verse demonstrate her character and foreshadow her role in the lineage of Israel.

2. Eliezer (Abraham's Servant)
Though not named in this chapter, Abraham's servant is traditionally understood to be Eliezer. He is on a mission to find a wife for Isaac, Abraham's son, and his encounter with Rebekah is a pivotal moment in fulfilling God's promise to Abraham.

3. The Well
The setting of this encounter, the well is a place of social gathering and sustenance, symbolizing provision and divine appointment in biblical accounts.

4. Camels
Representing wealth and the burden of the journey, the camels' need for water highlights Rebekah's willingness to serve beyond what is expected.

5. Nahor's City
The location where this event takes place, it is significant as the home of Abraham's relatives, indicating God's providence in leading the servant to the right family.

Teaching Points

Hospitality and Service
Rebekah's willingness to serve beyond what was asked of her is a model of Christian hospitality. We are called to serve others selflessly, reflecting Christ's love.

Divine Appointments
This encounter at the well was not by chance but orchestrated by God. We should be attentive to the divine appointments in our lives, where God may be leading us to fulfill His purposes.

Character and Integrity
Rebekah's actions reveal her character. Our actions, especially when no one is watching, reveal our true character and can be a testimony to others.

Faith in Action
Rebekah's immediate response to the servant's need demonstrates faith in action. We are encouraged to act promptly and generously when opportunities to serve arise.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rebekah's response to the servant's request demonstrate the biblical principle of going the extra mile, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does this account illustrate the concept of divine guidance, and how can we seek God's direction in our own decisions?

3. How does Rebekah's character compare to the qualities described in Proverbs 31, and what specific traits can we strive to develop in our own lives?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "divine appointment." How did it impact your faith journey, and what did you learn from it?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of hospitality and service in our communities, and what practical steps can we take to serve others as Rebekah did?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:14
This verse sets the stage for Rebekah's actions as an answer to the servant's prayer, demonstrating God's guidance and providence.

Proverbs 31:10-31
Rebekah's actions can be seen as an embodiment of the virtues described in this passage, particularly her industriousness and kindness.

Matthew 25:35-40
Rebekah's hospitality and service to a stranger reflect the teachings of Jesus about serving others as serving Him.